The mission of Seattle Presbytery is to participate, in word and deed, in God’s transforming work through the Gospel of Jesus Christ: by strengthening the witness and mission of our congregations and members and by building strong partnerships with each other and the larger Christian community.

Jim comes to SFTS having spent 13 years building a broad movement against hunger and poverty for Bread for the World, a faith-based advocacy organization in Washington, D.C. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University, a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary (N.Y.) and a PhD in International Relations from American University. With experience in pastoral ministry and as adjunct faculty at American and George Washington universities, Jim has shown a passion for education that makes a difference. In addition to balancing excellent scholarship and the excellent practice of ministry, Jim brings to SFTS a desire to move the seminary out into the world by teaching students how to deal with real-world situations, like power and conflict management, becoming community organizers, mediators and negotiators and involving the church in public policy at the local, state and national levels.

“I think our alums and friends will resonate with his dedication to Christian service and his vision of educating innovative leaders who can make a positive impact on a turbulent world,” says Lynn Dunn, associate vice president of alumni & church relations. “Right now, everyone wants to hear more about Jim and SFTS.”

This reception is open to everyone – pastors, congregations, presbytery members, and people considering ministry. Hors d’oeuvres will be served. Please RSVP to gharris@sfts.edu or 415.451.2821